Traditional Folk Song with Civil War era roots. It's popularity was re-ignited by The New Christy Minstrels, Paul Campbell, and others. There's a wonderful version by Richie Havens that's a favorite of mine, as well. This song is just "Random Enough" that I've always wanted to do a version of it. :) I remember continually listening to the rousing version of this song as a kid growing up on The New Christy Minstrels' album entitled, 'The New Christy Minstrels - RAMBLIN'. TNCM was an incredible collection of talented performers that eventually all found individual fame, in addition to their success as an influential force on the 60's Folk Music scene.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Follow_the_Drinkin'_Gourd
http://www.followthedrinkinggourd.org/Afterword.htm